Eczema

Eczema is a noncontagious series of conditions that cause inflamed, itchy skin and small blisters that can ooze and weep. It will crust over in thickened plaques of skin. The cause is not defined but theorized to be stress, irritants, and climate. Doctors also believed it to be caused by a combination of factors like abnormal functioning of the immune system, genetics, and defects in our skin barrier that allows moisture out.

Eczema is likely hereditary. Having relatives who have had asthma, or seasonal allergies has been shown to be a major risk. A surprising find is that children born to older women, seem to have a higher incidence of eczema.  Childen are more likely to get eczema if they in colder climates, are in higher social classes and live in urban with higher pollution levels.

Home treatments for mild eczema are tepid-water compresses followed by simple air evaporation, followed by a moisturizing cream or lotion.

•    Coconut oil sinks into your skin and fills intercellular spaces created by the loss of moisture. Apply coconut oil to affected areas and let it dry.

•    Fish oil like n-6 and n-3 fatty acids is rich in components for  proper skin functioning.

•    Chamomile tea is a known anti-inflammatory, anti-itch and healing drink. Put four tablespoons of dried German chamomile flowers in a cheesecloth bag. Hang it from the faucet when the bath is half full. Fill tub. Soak for about 10 to 15 minutes, then moisturize.

•    Try jojoba oil if coconut oil doesn’t work for you. It deeply penetrates the skin and most closely replicates oils from our skin’s natural oil, or sebum.  Massage into affected area, at least three times a day.